Media Statement
For Immediate Release

22 March 2007

DPA hails the repeal of the Disabled Persons Employment Promotion Act

A major national umbrella organisation representing disabled people is hailing the repeal of the misnamed Disabled Persons Employment Promotion (DPEP) Act.

“The repeal of the DPEP Act represents the end of nearly fifty years of legalized discrimination against disabled people,” says Mike Gourley, President of the Disabled Persons Assembly – DPA.

“Until now, basic rights such as minimum wages and holidays were denied to those who were in sheltered workshops. Any money paid to workers or time off was at the discretion of workshop bosses. The assumption was that disabled people’s work was inherently worth less.”

“Thankfully that day has finally passed. We have been working towards one employment law for all. We are thrilled to have achieved it” Mr Gourley says.

ENDS

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